He's gonna win, he's the main character. Get used to it.

He's gonna beat the shit out of Kimimaro, then Sasuke is going to pop out of the barrel and then they are going to fight.

Then Sasuke will have to make a choice, but I think he will go back to Konoha, since Naruto should be able to convince him.

Also this hasn't been a waste, Chouji and Neji have possibly died. Same with Genma and Raidou. I don't think any of the 4 are actually dead, but still, it has progressed the plot.


As for advancing the plot, you don't seem to get it..
This series is about friendship, the plot centers around that. Its not good vs evil necessarily.